Beulah Melvin Allen facts for kids

Beulah Melvin Allen was born on July 19, 1937. She is a notable Diné physician. In 1952, she achieved a special honor. She became the first ever Miss Navajo Nation.

Early Life and Education

Beulah Margaret Melvin was born in Eureka, California. When she was about 18 months old, her family moved. They settled in Fort Defiance, Arizona. This area is part of the Navajo Reservation.

Her mother worked as a nurse. She was at the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital. Beulah moved back to California in 7th grade. She stayed there until she finished high school.

Becoming Miss Navajo

In 1952, Beulah Melvin was chosen as Miss Navajo. This happened at the yearly Navajo Nation Fair. Back then, the winner was picked by how much applause they received.

College Journey

Beulah started college in 1954. She attended Barnard College for a time. In 1955, she went to Arizona State College. She spent her junior year, in 1956, at the University of Oregon.

She later attended Cornell Medical College. This was in 1958 and 1959. She received a special scholarship from the Navajo Tribe. In 1961, she earned a bachelor's degree. She studied anthropology at The University of Arizona.

Medical Career and Achievements

Beulah continued her medical studies. She received a fellowship to attend the University of Arizona College of Medicine. She graduated as a doctor in the early 1980s.

On November 14, 1969, Beulah married Richard N. Allen. Their wedding took place in Contra Costa, California.

In 1981, she received a special honor. She won the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation Merit Award. This award recognized her achievements.